In addition to discovering the latest and greatest innovations and meeting 1300 exhibitors in 500,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor exhibit space, World of Concrete gives attendees many opportunities to expand their horizons through educational seminars and special editorial events. THE CONCRETE PRODUCER is an official publication of World of Concrete and is the official magazine of the Producer Center in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. Turn to page 36 to see products that will be exhibited there.

It's not too early to start making plans to attend this exciting event Jan. 24-27; seminars begin Jan. 23. For detailed information on registration, exhibitors, housing, and more, visit www.worldofconcrete.com.

Hoover Dam Bypass Tour

Join the editors of THE CONCRETE PRODUCER on an exciting tour of the world-famous Hoover Dam and its new concrete partner, the Mike O'Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, which was completed in 2010. Learn about the history and challenges concrete producers and contractors overcame to build these iconic structures on the Colorado River. Bus transportation and box lunches will be provided. Book early, as this tour always sells out. Sunday, Jan. 22, 12:30-5:30 p.m., and Friday, Jan. 27, 1-6 p.m. Pick-up and drop-off at Door 9 in back of Grand Concourse. Cost: $80 by Dec. 8; $105 after and onsite.

Women in Concrete Luncheon & Forum

Now in its sixth year, this exclusive event unites women from all segments of the industry who face the same daily challenges as you. The topic of the sixth annual Women in Concrete Luncheon & Forum is “What can we do to create Job Growth for Women in the Concrete Construction Industry?” Industry leaders will discuss what can be done to foster the growth of jobs for women and the steps needed to ensure these new jobs offer greater opportunities.

This important event provides networking opportunities and offers participants important insights on how to meet the specific challenges for women in the concrete industry. Noon-2 p.m., Wednesday, Jan. 25. Cost: $60 before Dec. 8; $90 after Dec. 8 and onsite.

THE CONCRETE PRODUCER'S ChallengesJohn Deere Operator Challenge

Get in the driver's seat during this exciting competition. Put your speed and accuracy to the test on a 4WD loader, skid steer, backhoe, or excavator and score points toward the top daily prize. For each challenge, the operator is timed. Operators are penalized for errors or not accomplishing a task. Last year, more than 250 people participated in the John Deere Operator Challenge. Visit the events page at www.worldofconcrete.com to watch a video of the Challenge. Tuesday-Friday during exhibit hours in the Gold Lot, next to the North Hall.

Western Star Serious Trucks Challenge

Do you have what it takes to tackle the Western Star Serious Trucks Challenge? Drivers will maneuver ready-mix trucks in confined spaces, simulate concrete pours, and more. Parking, backing up, and maneuvering curves are some of the challenges. Tuesday-Thursday during exhibit hours in the Silver Lot, next to the South Hall.

Start Your Bidding!

The Concrete Industry Management (CIM) National Steering Committee (NSC) is once again hosting an unreserved auction. Concrete industry-related items will be auctioned off with all proceeds benefiting the five CIM programs. A fully equipped ready-mix truck will be auctioned off again this year. Wednesday, Jan. 25. Live Auction, 1-2 p.m., Room N264, Silent Auction, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Room N263. Visit www.concretedegree.com. If you cannot attend, you can bid online at www.rbauction.com.